GOING DOWN MEMORY LANE

When I saw Katie Nicholas' message on Facebook about her lovely and loyal mare Priddy having gone to horse heaven, I immediately went down memory lane.

Katie and I go back a long time and I've seen her on quite a few different horses. Her first lesson with me was organised by Claire Daniels, who got a group together for me to teach during the time they were still at Duchy College.

Katie was riding her sister's thoroughbred and from there we grew a wonderful relationship which continued in her riding arena at her home on the south coast. Either her mum or dad would provide me with cups of tea whereas several dogs would keep me company.

A BIG HEART AND KEEN TO LEARN

When I saw Priddy for the first time, Kate was a little apologetic, 'Sorry, Liz, she is not exactly a big mover.' Katie had bought her from Claire Rushworth to event and when Novice was achieved and Katie decided to have babies, it was time to focus on a dressage career.

Now, lack of movement has never affected me much as long as it is a horse that is eager to learn and has a half decent canter. Priddy certainly had that; she had a big heart and was keen to learn. She was also a mare, so a little moody at times, but together with Katie's endless patience we tinkered away and waited for when Priddy was ready to step up the game.

FLYING CHANGES, HOORAY!

Having learned from her previous horse not to get too carried away with the flying changes, Kate and Priddy took their time and, blow me, there they were! From every six strides to every four strides and then every three strides!

The real fun started when the basics were there sufficiently to start the half steps into piaffe. She was good at it and from there the trot, which had already improved through the canter work, got better and better. It would never be huge, but it was correct and Kate and Priddy were a lovely picture together. 

PRIDDY PRIX ST GEORGE

We had already worked on the quarter pirouettes in canter but they were difficult for this sweet mare when moody, so we had to pick our days. Still, there was a moment that Kate, after some decent Advanced tests entered her first Prix St George. For me as a trainer a fantastic moment. My first pupil at that level!

PRIDDY STOLE MY HEART

I think back of those days with great fondness. A rider always willing to give everything, a horse willing to give more than ever thought possible and all those lovely cups of tea...

I am with you Katie,I miss her too. Priddy stole my heart many a time and we will never forget her...